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Atlanta, GA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Notice period
30 calendar days to abate
Repeat violation
New offense every 30 days
Enforcement
Atlanta Municipal Court citation
Emergency trim
No notice if only overhang
Cost recovery
City can bill owner

Summary

Atlanta requires property owners to trim or remove trees that block safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail, or face a municipal court citation after 30 days' notice.

Abatement may be ordered where a private property tree interferes with safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail; or is deemed a nuisance as defined in this section.(b)Notice. When the city arborist determines that a private tree requires abatement, he or she shall give written notice to the owner of the property. The notice shall contain:(1)A clear and concise statement that in the city's opinion the tree or part of a tree interferes with safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail and/or constitutes a nuisance;(2)The specific actions that the owner must take to mitigate the nuisance; and(3)A statement that if the work is not done by the property owner within 30 calendar days from the date of the notice, the city may issue a citation to appear in municipal court.

Source: Atlanta Code Ch. 158 - VegetationView official code

Full Breakdown

When a private tree blocks safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail, the city arborist sends written notice describing the problem and the required action. Owners have 30 calendar days to abate it; each additional 30-day period without action is a separate offense enforced through Atlanta Municipal Court. If only the portion overhanging the right-of-way needs removal, the city can trim it without notifying the owner first.

Violations & Fines

Missing the 30-day deadline triggers a citation to Atlanta Municipal Court, and each further 30-day period without abatement is a separate offense. The city can also abate the hazard itself and bill the owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who decides if my tree is a nuisance in Atlanta?
The city arborist makes that call under Atlanta Code § 158-40(a), based on whether a dead, diseased, or damaged tree could fall onto a public way and endanger life, property, or traffic.
What happens if I ignore the 30-day notice?
The city arborist can summon you to Atlanta Municipal Court, and if the judge agrees the tree is a nuisance, you'll get a court-ordered deadline to remove it or face further offenses.
Can the city trim my tree without asking me?
Yes: if the hazard is limited to the part of the tree hanging over the public right-of-way, Atlanta can remove just that portion without prior notice to the owner.

Sources & Official References

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